Today’s scripture: Isaiah 5:8-23 (NRSV) (The Message) (KJV) What might God be saying to me?
My thoughts (Steve Adams):
So what’s your reaction when you read these verses? At first I felt deep disappointment because, even though I’m not pushing people out of land that’s rightfully theirs, I nevertheless see that I’ve been greedy and oblivious to people who desperately need help. The disappointment, however, motivated me to change — to come up with ideas on how to help people who need it. And the end result is joy and anticipation! Let me explain.
Isaiah’s words spurred me to think about all the millions of people in Syria, Guatemala, Zimbabwe, Darfur, and many other places who are hungry, malnourished, sick, and without a home. Then I thought of how many are in desperate need right here in Indianapolis. How can I be oblivious to this? Yes, I give some to organizations like Doctors without Borders, and some of the money I give to LifeJourney Church goes to people in need. But with these verses I hear the Holy Spirit saying to me: GIVE MORE! MAKE IT A HIGHER PRIORITY!
This message is causing me to come up with new ideas almost every day on how I can give. First, I may need a new car soon. Instead of buying something fancy, I’m going to spend less to buy something moderate, and give the difference to people who really need it. Secondly, I’ve decided I’m giving a chunk of my savings to a charity that helps others in dire need. This will, of course, require finding out which charities are the most efficient in getting results. Third, and this is a small one, I’ve got a bunch of extra clothes that I don’t need. I’ve decided they’re going to local people who need them. That gave me another idea — have a yard sale, and donate the proceeds to the needy. The more I think about this one, the more I look forward to it! Jesus’ words are coming alive more than ever — it IS more blessed to give than to receive!
I know many, right here in the United States, are struggling to pay their bills, trying to keep a roof over their heads. And I know there are people in this situation in our own church. So I don’t mean this as a criticism to you. I’m speaking of people like me and others who’ve been blessed with material abundance.
In closing, let me say that I’m extremely thankful that I’m writing to people who love God, who are spiritually proactive, and who are therefore open to following truth wherever it leads them. You wouldn’t be spending your time reading a Be Still devotional if you weren’t! And I’m inspired that some of you, along with others in our church, have gone on missionary trips to serve those who really need it. I believe God is awakening people throughout the prosperous nations of the world to give more, to make it a higher priority to give to those who are stuck in life-threatening poverty.
Thought for the day: God, may you open my eyes to the truth: It IS more blessed to give than to receive!
We encourage you to include a time of prayer with this reading. If you need a place to get started, consider the suggestions on the How to Pray page.